Panther

A common folk etymology for this name derives it from Greek παν- (pan-) “all” and either θήρ (ther) “beast, animal” or θήρα (thera) “hunt, chase”. Its true origin is most likely oriental, probably derived from a relation of Persian پلنگ (palang) which means “Panther, leopard”. Also compare Greek πάρδαλις (pardalis), another word for a leopard or Panther.

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In Ancient Greek mythology, “Panther” did not refer to an actual big cat; it instead referred to a kind of mythical beast that usually resembled a big cat (though sometimes it was a donkey, or a mix of various beasts) with multicoloured fur, said to emit a sweet-smelling odour that lured in its prey when it roared. This Panther was also adopted into medieval heraldry, where it was often depicted with flames emitting from its mouth and ears.

Panther is indeed the Greek word for "panther," but "panther" in the Greek sense is not a type of cat. It means literally "all beasts."